What is the Hundred? The rules, teams and players as 100-ball tournament returns in 2022

Jonny Bairstow has pulled out of Welsh Fire's Hundred campaign to focus on resting and recuperating before England's upcoming Test series against South Africa.

Bairstow was on Tuesday named in the squad to face the Proteas at Lord's on August 17 before Tests at Old Trafford and the Oval conclude the three-match series.

England also have a busy autumn and winter schedule that includes two tours of Pakistan and series against Australia, New Zealand and Bangladesh, as well as the Twenty20 World Cup.

The 32-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman- a constant fixture in the England side since being recalled in late 2020 - was due to represent Welsh Fire in their opening match against champions Southern Brave at Ageas Bowl on Wednesday, but he will no longer be making himself available for selection after enduring "a hectic few months" of international cricket.

Bairstow said in a statement: "I'm really disappointed I won't be part of The Hundred this year. I loved it last year, but I've had a hectic few months with the schedule as it is and I really need to take a breather before the South Africa Test series. All the best to the Welsh Fire men and women - I'll be cheering you on."

A Welsh Fire statement read: "We understand Jonny's decision and wish him all the best. We can't wait to get our Hundred campaign under way tomorrow night and then look forward to getting back in front of our own fans at Sophia Gardens on Sunday."

Southern Brave won the inaugural competition last year, beating Birmingham Phoenix in the men’s final at Lord’s after Oval Invincibles won the women’s crown.

The blurb on the Hundred website sums up the aims from simplicity of the game to the desired audience: “Seven cities, eight teams, 100 balls. The Hundred will